Airbag Unit With Igniter, Removing And Installing, Bolted Airbag Version: Removing

WARNING:

Follow all safety precautions when working with pyrotechnic components. Refer to SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .
Follow all regulations when disposing of pyrotechnic components. Refer to AIRBAG, BELT TENSIONER AND BATTERY CUT-OUT UNITS, STORING, TRANSPORTING AND DISPOSING (PYROTECHNIC COMPONENTS) .

-- Move the steering wheel as far to the rear and down as possible. Use the full steering column adjustment range for this.

-- Switch the ignition on.

-- Disconnect the battery ground cable with the ignition turned on. Refer to BATTERY .

-- Turn the steering wheel so the cap -1- on the rear side of it faces directly upward. This is approximately the 12:00 position.

Fig 1: Cover Cap Left And Right From Backside Of Steering Wheel, Removal

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Tape off the upper trim panel for the steering column switch module near the airbag threaded connection to avoid damaging the surface.

-- Pry the cap off -arrow-.

-- Remove the driver side airbag bolt -arrow-.

Fig 2: Driver Airbag Bolt

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Turn the steering wheel 180° and repeat the procedure on the opposite side.

-- Bring the steering wheel back into the center (wheels are straight).

Fig 3: Bring Steering Wheel Back To Center

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

WARNING:

Before handling pyrotechnic components (for example, disconnecting the connector), the person handling it must "discharge static electricity". For example, this can be done by briefly touching the door striker.

-- Slightly remove the driver side airbag from the steering wheel.

-- Pull the connector lock -1- until it stops -arrow-. This releases the connector -2- and it can be removed.

-- Vehicles with a multifunction and Tiptronic steering wheel: disconnect the connector -3-.

-- Remove the airbag -4-.

WARNING:

Set the airbag down so the impact cushion faces upward.